In late December, several major cultural and spiritual celebrations converge: the Winter Solstice, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. Though their origins, rituals, and theological frameworks differ, they arise at the same moment in the year—during the longest nights—and all turn toward light as a symbol of renewal, resilience, and connection. For many of us, this season …
“Sangha is the living mandala…” A reflection on the beauty of connection and shared presence within our weekly digital gatherings.
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Key West Tara Mandala Blog June 2023 May All…How We Use the Word “May” in our Practices and Prayers by Ellen Yeshe May all beings have happiness and the causes of happiness. May all beings be free from suffering and the causes of suffering. May all beings never be separated from the …
“It is by understanding the dakini’s fierceness as a productive and creative source of raw energy that we see the dakinis in action wielding – the power to subdue, protect, and transform. We must find the sources to access this fierce dakini power and bring it to bear on what matters to us in our …
“Throughout my life, until this very moment, whatever virtue I have accomplished, I dedicate to the welfare of all beings. May the roots of suffering diminish. May warfare, violence, neglect, indifference, and addiction also decrease. May the wisdom and compassion of all beings increase, now and in the future. May we clearly see all the …
In June our teacher, Ellen Booth Church, told the Key West Tara Mandala Sangha about the Earth Treasure Vase Global Healing Project. This project was inspired by an ancient Tibetan Buddhist tradition to bring healing and protection to the Earth by filling clay vessels with prayers and offerings, and ceremonially burying them in the Earth …
“Dharma books and tapes are valuable, but the true Dharma is revealed through our life and our practice. There are said to be 84,000 Dharma doors. To take refuge in the Dharma is to choose the doors that are most appropriate for us. Dharma is great compassion, understanding and love. To realize these qualities, we …
Dear Sangha Community, Spring is a time of renewal and a fresh look at life. Poems, words and quotes can do that for us. I have been feeling the simple words of a Haiku, a quote or lyric or even a single word as a direct message to my heart and mind. I was chatting …
“In Buddhism, the conch symbolizes fearlessness in proclaiming the truth of the dharma, and its call to awaken and work for the benefits of others.” Dear Sangha Community, Did you hear (feel) me sound the conch shell this week? It was my way of welcoming March with the clear sound of proclaiming the truth of …
